JUST KEEP SWIMMING: Pool concepts take on three shapes

August 15, 2013

COLUMBIA CITY â€” A pool of ideas for a new aquatics facility for Columbia City has funneled into three concepts, which were presented at a public forum Wednesday night.

Representatives from Counsilman-Hunsaker and MartinRiley have been working with a task force of community members to develop options to replace the aging Burnworth Memorial Pool, set to close in 2014.

At the meeting, three proposals were presented that encompassed an outdoor facility, a larger combination of both an outdoor and an indoor facility and an option that would partner with the Whitley County YMCA in expanding its existing aquatics facility.

Option one

In the first proposed facility, a pool would be built in the existing location that would include a new bathhouse, six competitive lanes and a separate pool for recreational swimming and classes.

Proposed cost for the facility would be approximately $3 million, which includes reworking the site, parking and demolition of the existing pool.

Option two

Combining efforts with the Whitley County YMCA, option two proposes an addition to the existing natatorium at the Y.

A $2 million project allows for dedicated entrance to the pool, separate locker rooms and spectator seating.

The new pool would add competitive lanes for meets and competitions, freeing up the YMCAâ€™s pool for classes, lessons and member use.

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